To say that the 2016 Chilton County volleyball team is experienced would be an understatement with seniors making up 10 of the 12 spots on the roster.

The senior class is hungry for success, after getting a taste of it by making it to regionals for the first time in their high school careers last season.

“It really gives us something to build off of entering this season,” said Chilton County head coach Emily Driver. “We’re ready for some competition.”

This season will offer a depth of leadership and veteran presence that most coaches only dream of.

“All 10 of them have shown signs of stepping up in different ways,” Driver said. “They are very mature and are just trying to make the most of it in their last season.”

Helping lead the way both on and off the court for Chilton County are players such as setter Lesley Harton, middle hitter Kaley Lucas and libero Johnna Robertson.

“The mindset is centered around believing in my team and the confidence that we have developed in each other,” Harton said.

Lucas is a factor with her play around the net, while Robertson leads the defense.

Harton has a hand in each play and is a key contributor in making sure that everything flows properly and the team remains in a rhythm.

“She’s so important for us, because she is touching the ball on every play,” Driver said.

Chilton County is one of three teams in Area 5-6A along with Selma and Stanhope-Elmore.

A smaller area requires a different mindset and adds even more significance to the four area matchups that the Tigers will play during the regular season.

According to Driver, the biggest difference is the opportunity to secure a spot in the area title game based on the success in area play during the regular season.

“We’re focused on having the stress off of us entering the area tournament and gaining a smooth ride to regionals,” Driver said.

The Tigers will play in three tournaments during the regular season beginning in Hoover on Friday and Saturday and followed by one in Marbury Sept. 17 and the county tournament on Oct. 8.

Driver believes that the non-area schedule is designed to present challenges each week and prepare the team for what they would face in the postseason.

“I’ve stepped it up,” Driver said. “You have to play the best to beat the best.”

Lucas has been playing alongside many of her teammates since eighth grade, and believes that this has the opportunity to be a special year and a culmination of all the hard work that they have put in over the years.

“For us it will all come down to attitude,” Lucas said. “You have to keep your standards high, no matter what is going on around you. This is our year, and we’re glad to be playing together one last time.